Chicken Skin

What is Chicken Skin?

Chicken skin is a nickname for Keratosis Pilaris which causes small, rough, tan or red little bumps around hair follicles on the upper arms, thighs, buttocks and cheeks and creates the appearance of gooseflesh, foose bumps or chicken skin. Keratosis Pilaris is seen in patients with other dry skin conditions and atopic dermatitis.

Treatments

Keratosis pilaris is not life threatening and carries no risk for health complications, but its appearance can be bothersome for those affected and negatively impact their self-esteem. The condition is marked by small bumps that appear on the skin on the backs of the arms, buttocks and thighs. Often, the bumps are flesh-colored and resemble goose bumps, but they have the potential to become red and look like a rash. When severe, chicken skin has a rough texture that many sufferers find unpleasant and embarrassing. Usually, keratosis pilaris is most severe during the winter months when the air is at its driest.

There is no cure for chicken skin however, with age, it usually disappears. Treatments which can improve the appearance include AHA, hydrocortisone, retinoids, vitamin A creams, exfoliation, and moisturizers. Try not to pick at the affected area as this will only aggravate it further. Always check with your dermatologist.